Gen. Dror Shalom: 'The Idea of Toppling the Iranian Regime Was an Illusion'

In his first interview since leaving the Defense Ministry, reserve Brig. Gen. Dror Shalom said the idea of toppling the Iranian regime was an illusion. He acknowledged tactical successes but a strategic failure on all fronts, supported Trump's plan for Gaza, and called for a state commission of inquiry into the events of October 7 and the Iranian issue.

In his first interview since stepping down as head of the military-political department at the Defense Ministry, reserve Brig. Gen. Dror Shalom assessed Israel's strategic situation. He stated that despite tactical successes, on a strategic level Israel cannot achieve a resolution on any front: Hamas has not been toppled, Hezbollah has not been disarmed, and Iran's nuclear program has only been set back. Shalom considers the return of hostages one of the few achievements of the war, noting the role of President Trump and the protesters. He supported Trump's 20-point plan for Gaza and proposed eliminating Hamas members abroad. The general also advocated for a state commission of inquiry into the events of October 7 and the war, as well as the Iranian issue. He criticized the lack of strategy and the weakness of the strategic apparatus, calling for strengthening ties with the US, Egypt, Jordan, and other countries, as well as increasing the defense budget and investing in education.